Overview
The ACLS Tachycardia Algorithm is organized around the following questions:
Is the patient stable or unstable?
Is the QRS wide or narrow?
Is the ventricular rhythm regular or irregular?
Steps
Does the patient have a pulse? If no, the patient’s rhythm is PEA and should be treated as such.
If yes:
Assess the patient using the primary and secondary surveys:
Check airway, breathing, and circulation.
Give oxygen if the oxygen saturation is less than 94% or the patient is short of breath.
Perform a 12 Lead ECG if the patient is stable.
Identify rhythm.
Check blood pressure.
Identify and treat reversible causes if the rhythm is sinus tachycardia.
Is the patient stable?
Look for altered mental status, ongoing chest pain, hypotension, or other signs of shock.
Remember: Rate-related symptoms are uncommon if heart rate is less than 150 bpm.
If the signs and symptoms continue after you have given oxygen and supported the airway and circulation AND if significant symptoms are due to the tachycardia, then the tachycardia is UNSTABLE and immediate cardioversion is indicated.
If you determine that the patient has an unstable tachycardia, perform immediate synchronized cardioversion. This is not a decision to take lightly as it carries with it a significant risk of stroke.
Start an IV.
Give sedation if the patient is conscious.
Do not delay cardioversion.
Consider expert consultation.
If you determine that the patient has a stable tachycardia, start an IV and obtain a 12-lead ECG
For a patient with a stable tachycardia, decide if the QRS complex is wide or narrow and if the rhythm is regular.